D
De RosaProtos
road
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Origin
The Protos was De Rosa's flagship competition machine through much of the 2010s — the top-of-catalogue race bike built entirely in the Milan workshop rather than outsourced to Asia. Using CM63 carbon, a proprietary blend developed with Japanese fibre suppliers, the Protos set De Rosa's benchmark for stiffness and weight before the Settanta (70) took the crown.
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Specifications
- Frame
- CM63 four-modulus ultra-high-modulus carbon layup (T700/T800/M40J/ultra-HM); three types used in standard version; frame weight ~900 g (rim) / ~850 g (disc version per manufacturer claim); Italian BB thread; made in Milan
- Weight
- kg
- Drivetrain
- Campagnolo Super Record on reviewed builds; Dura-Ace Di2 also available; 2x11
- Brakes
- Disc version: flat-mount hydraulic disc; rim version: standard dual-pivot calipers
- Wheels
- 700c; reviewed with Fulcrum Racing Speed wheels
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The verdict
+Strengths
- Exceptional stiffness and sprint response from CM63 ultra-HM carbon construction
- Milan-made craftsmanship with visible quality control at every weld and finish
- Race-geometry that rewards skilled aggressive riders over long days
−Weaknesses
- Very aggressive fit — short head tube limits accessibility for non-race riders
- Superseded by the lighter and more aero De Rosa 70; Protos is effectively a legacy platform
- 22 mm tubular spec on rim builds shows age — modern gravel and all-road demands have moved on
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Tags
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